Harbour canals: sources of inspiration

The harbour canals form unique elements in the landscape of the island Goeree-Overflakkee. Originally the villages with harbours were on the coast, but through land reclamation by constructing dikes, the sea moved away from the villages. However, the economic link with the sea was so important that canals were made to maintain this connection. Now part of the original harbour canals is filled in.

Our vision ‘Harbour canals: sources of inspiration’ provides insight into the particular cultural history of the harbour canals and into the opportunities for their future development. Taking input from the many ideas of residents, we have examined how the harbour canals can be used as a source of inspiration in designing future spatial developments on the island. This has led to the formulation of seven principles for the further development of the harbour canals, such as making them navigable, bringing out their cultural history, and finding a good way of harmonising the harbour canals with the new urban developments.

We have elaborated the vision specifically in design proposals for four of the seven harbour canals (Goedereede, Dirksland, Middelharnis and Ooltgensplaat).